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Whether it's a musical spectacular on Broadway or an off-off-Broadway show with an audience of 30, some of the world's best theater happens in New York. No need to pack opera gloves for a balmy June night; the theater scene is more casual now than ever. The weather you'll deal with outside the theater is more relevant when choosing your ensemble.

Dress Code for NYC Theaters

First things first: there's no set dress code for the typical New York City theater. Technically you could walk into most places wearing cutoff jeans and a stained tank top and not be turned away. You will, however, look out of place compared to many other theatergoers and in comparison to the lush, glamorous interiors of the city's theaters. If you'd still rather dress on the casual side, it never hurts to contact the theater in advance and verify it doesn't have its own dress code. One time you'll want to dress up is on a show's opening night, especially if you're a guest of anyone associated with the show. On this occasion, the dressier, the better.

June Weather in New York

Though summer is only just beginning, June can be overwhelmingly hot in New York City. While the average high temperature is 79 degrees Fahrenheit, heat waves sometimes bring June temperatures close to or higher than 100 degrees. On the other hand, this early in the summer, cold spells are possible too. Even when temperatures are moderate, June tends to be stuffy and humid on New York's packed streets, and the air might not feel much more pleasant at night. Restaurants and theaters tend to be cold by contrast, so you'll want to be prepared for those fluctuations. In June, as in every month, rain and thunderstorms are always a possibility. When a storm's predicted, plan to dine close to your theater, since cabs are hard to get and trains are crowded when it rains.

Female Attire for the NYC Theater

If the weather's steamy during your trip, a sundress or skirt and dressy short-sleeved or sleeveless blouse might be your most comfortable option for walking to and from the theater. Shorts may even work, provided you choose a dressy pair; avoid denim and instead choose dark, mid-thigh or knee-length shorts in a luxurious fabric like silk. Prepare for the theater's air conditioning by wearing or carrying a cardigan or blazer. Tie a scarf or pashmina around your purse strap and use it to cover your bare legs if you're cold during the show. If the weather is cooler, wear dress pants or a long, brightly colored dress. In New York, comfortable shoes are a must, since you'll likely find yourself walking quite a bit. Jeweled sandals or flat leather boots are stylish and appropriate.

Dress for a Man Attending the Theater

Dressing for a warm evening in New York is fairly simple for men. During an especially hot June, or if you plan to head to the show straight from a day of sightseeing, wear flat-front shorts in either khaki, navy or black, paired with a crisp polo shirt. While sneakers are acceptable, leather boat shoes are dressier and nearly as comfortable. If you're visiting on a cooler June evening, dress pants and either a polo shirt or dress shirt, paired with polished loafers or dress shoes, is appropriate for the theater. A tie and jacket aren't essential unless it's opening night, though you might be grateful to have a coat or sweater when you step into the air-conditioned space.

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About the Author

Cooking, travel and parenting are three of Kathryn Walsh's passions. She makes chicken nuggets during days nannying, whips up vegetarian feasts at night and road trips on weekends. Her work has appeared to The Syracuse Post-Standard and insider magazine. Walsh received a master's degree in journalism from Syracuse University.

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